Earthquake

While Billings is not considered to be a ‘high-risk’ area for earthquake activity, the possibility of tremors reaching us from active areas is possible. Montana has been known to experience earthquakes, and many researchers believe there to be a high probability of an earthquake in the Yellowstone National Park area. With the geographic location of MSU Billings, such an event would have an effect on the university.

During a major earthquake, you may hear a roaring or rumbling sound that gradually grows louder. You may feel a rolling sensation that starts out gently and, within a second or two grows violent. You may first be jarred by a violent jolt. A second or two later, you may feel shaking and find it difficult to stand up or move from one room to another. The real key to surviving an earthquake and reducing your risk of injury lies in planning, preparing, and practicing what you will do if it happens. You can learn to react correctly and automatically when the shaking begins.

During an Earthquake:

Indoors

In modern buildings, falling down or being struck by falling objects causes most earthquake-related injuries.

DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON immediately.

  • DROP to the ground before the earthquake drops you!
  • TAKE COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table and
  • HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops.
  • STAY INDOORS; do not exit the building or use elevators.
  • STAY AWAY from all windows and large glass objects.
  • AVOID being underneath heavy objects such as lights, wall hangings, and other items that may fall.
  • HELP DIRECT people with special needs to a safe place, if necessary.
  • MAKE SURE wheelchair-bound individuals lock brakes.

Outdoors

  • Move to an area AWAY FROM trees, power lines, buildings, and walls.
  • DROP TO KNEES and get into a fetal position, close your eyes, and cross your arms over the back of your neck for protection.
  • REMAIN in position until shaking has stopped.

When Aftershocks Stop

  • DO NOT USE cell phones, EXCEPT to report serious injuries.
  • ASSIST in the building evacuation of people with special needs, if safe to do so.
  • TUNE radios to an emergency broadcast or local radio stations for news updates and instructions.
  • BE PREPARED to evacuate if instructed to do so. (The decision to evacuate campus will be based upon the severity of the earthquake and damage to buildings.)
  • The university will provide instructions for immediate actions by available means.
  • If instructed to evacuate, see “EVACUATION” section of this guide. DO NOT ENTER any building that is deemed or looks unsafe.